How to Open a DWF File

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By pondripples
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DWF files are created in AutoCAD. DWF stands for Drawing Web Format. DWF files are used to share CAD files with people who don't have AutoCAD software. CAD stands for Computer Aided Drafting.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Step 1

Go to Autodesk.com. Autodesk is the maker of AutoCAD.
Step 2

On the Autodesk website, look in the lower right for the link to AutoDesk Design review. It's possible that by the time you read this, that the name of the free viewer will have changed. The previous DWF viewer was named whip viewer. Design reviewer will let you mark up drawings, whip viewer only let you look at them, and turn on and off layers.
Step 3

Select a language. If you like on the same page you can opt to download the dwg viewer along with the dwf viewer. This will allow you to view standard AutoCAD files as well as dwf files.
Step 4

To install the DWF viewer, click on the downloaded exe file, then click run.

Tips & Warnings

Adobe PDF has become a preferred format for sharing drawings with non-technical people. You may want to request this from your draftsman, but be aware that PDF has limitations. Layers can't be turned on or off, detail is lost when you print or zoom in on large drawings, and mark up can be limited.